5 Things To Ask Yourself Before Beginning a Home Improvement Project

January 23, 2018

One of the most rewarding things about owning a home is making home improvements. Whether they are cosmetic, practical or structural, the satisfaction you get from making your house into a dream home you’ve always wished for is the best feeling. And, if you decide to sell up, these improvements can add value.

As home projects come in all shapes and sizes, they can require anything from a basic understanding of home repairs and DIY, to knowing when it’s best to hire a professional. Before starting your next big home improvement project it is important to ask yourself some questions.

Do I have the correct tools and skills to see this project to the end?

There is nothing worse than starting a project only to realise that you are woefully unprepared for it. Before starting anything, sit down and determine whether or not you are skilled to the level that is required to finish the job.

If you are having trouble understanding some aspects of this job, it is unlikely that you will be able to finish the project. You will also need lots of tool and materials to complete the task. If the cost of buying the tools seems unaffordable, you might want to consider hiring a professional who has their own tools.

Also, if you want to fit a something like new pavers to replace ugly concrete in your front or backyard, you might want to consider hiring someone: a task that is this tricky requires significant skill and a lot of specialized equipment.

Could this project be dangerous?

This could be the most important question of all. If you think you are going to enter dangerous territory whilst completing your project then consider hiring a professional. Structural work, electrical work, plumbing or anything that deals with gas tends to come under the category of ‘things you shouldn’t get involved in’ without the proper professional help.

If you need permits, or a chat with a consultant before you can start a job, you might want to think about taking this job out of your hands. There are plenty of services that deal with any specific needs you might have.

What do I value the most – time or money?

One of the most attractive aspects of doing it yourself DIY is the saving on labor costs, as doing it yourself means you don’t have to spend as much money.

But many of us forget that time is money and if you are too busy to start a home repair, your time could be spent doing something else and could well be worth more money than it costs to hire someone.

Will you need another pair of hands?

Is this project a one person job? If not, think about whether or not you feel comfortable asking your friends or family to help.

Keep in mind you need someone who knows what they are doing as it will only complicate things if they are struggling to understand the task at hand. Mistakes will cost money.

What are your priorities?

Not all home renovations are as fun and exciting as making a home cinema room or games room. Some things need to be done simply to protect your investment. If your house is in need of a new roof, an updated electric system, or a drainage system, address it first. Those fun projects will have to wait if there are health and safety issues involved or any work that could compromise the integrity of your home.

Whether your home improvement project is a new living room, bedroom, kitchen or bathroom, ask yourself all of the above questions before you begin.